Queensland tourism growth continues to surge with international tourism numbers reaching a new high, Minister for Tourism and Major Events Kate Jones announced today.

Ms. Jones said international visitation in the 12 months to June 2016 grew a further 11 % with 2.5 Million visitors generating $5.1 Billion in overnight expenditure, according to the latest Tourism Research Australia data.

“We have seen growth from the Asian markets of China, Japan, Taiwan and Korea and Western markets of Germany, USA and New Zealand.” Ms. Jones said.

“Brisbane and the Gold Coast had the largest international visitation numbers on record, reaching 1.17 Million and 984,000 visitors respectively.”

“Overnight visitor expenditure on the Gold Coast reached a record $1.3 Billion and the Sunshine Coast also hit historic highs of $245 Million.”

Overall, 14 of Queensland’s top 20 international markets recorded increases in overnight visitor expenditure, with strong growth from key source markets including:

China (up 26 %),

United States (up 20 %),

Germany (up 9 %),

Japan (up 19 %),

New Zealand (up 9 %).

Ms. Jones said the results followed the launch last week of the Queensland Asia Tourism Strategy 2016-2025 which aspires to grow the Asian market to $6.8 Billion and support up to 30,000 additional jobs by 2025.

“This strategy will accelerate our effort in key growth markets and reinforces that Queensland is the best address on earth for international travellers to experience.” Ms. Jones said.

“We have seen international visitors travelling throughout the state boosting regional economies and supporting local jobs.”